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Bok to lock it down for Tahs

Tue, 25 Feb 2014 06:50

Waratahs coach Michael Cheika has made just one change to his side to face the Reds with Springbok Jacques Potgieter replacing Will Skelton at lock.

Cheika explained that it is a horses for courses selection, with Potgieter's experience and physicality key in this big Australian derby.

"It's not about form, it's about the roles they have to play in this particular game," said Cheika.

"Jacques brings a different set of skills than Will. He has more experience and won't give a damn that it's a derby game. He brings a real physicality to the game in both attack and defence."

Australia's biggest rugby player Skelton will still have an important role to play when he gets his chance.

"Jacques was blowing pretty heavily after his 37 minute stint against the Force," said the coach. "When Will gets on, he'll be expected to maintain the level of intensity and do the job he's been set."

Prop Paddy Ryan has withstood the challenge from Sekope Kepu and will retain his place alongside Benn Robinson and Tatafu Polota Nau at the coalface in an all-Wallaby front row.

Despite a minor knee injury, captain Dave Dennis will lead the side out. The backline remains untouched with Bernard Foley and Kurtley Beale in charge of the midfield.

Rookie winger Alofa Alofa has held his spot after crossing for a try on debut and, along with Wallaby Peter Betham and Israel Folau, has his sights on being part of the best back three in the competition.

The Templeton Cup is symbolic of Australian rugby’s oldest and most fierce rivalry between the Reds and the Waratahs. It is named after legendary Queensland coach and administrator Bob Templeton (1932-1999) and was introduced in 2000 as a mark of respect to the service Templeton gave to the game.